Aculeates meaning

Aculeates are stinging insects that have a needle-like structure at the end of their abdomen for defense.


Aculeates definitions

Word backwards setaeluca
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ac-u-le-ates
Plural The plural of the word "aculeates" is "aculeates."
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) a,u,e
Consonants (4) c,l,t,s

Aculeates are a diverse group of insects belonging to the order Hymenoptera, which includes bees, ants, and wasps. These insects are characterized by the presence of a stinger or ovipositor at the end of their abdomen, which they use for defense, hunting, or laying eggs.

Characteristics of Aculeates

Aculeates have a wide range of sizes, from tiny bees to large wasps, but they all share common characteristics. They have a well-defined waist, two pairs of wings, and a mouth adapted for chewing or sucking depending on their diet. One of the most distinguishing features of aculeates is their stinger or ovipositor, which may be used for protection, capturing prey, or laying eggs.

Behavior and Ecology

Aculeates play crucial roles in ecosystems as pollinators, predators, and parasitoids. Bees, for example, are essential pollinators of flowering plants, contributing to the reproduction of many plant species. Wasps are predators of insects and other arthropods, helping to control pest populations. Ants are social insects that live in colonies and play key roles in nutrient recycling and soil aeration.

Species Diversity

There are over 150,000 species of aculeates worldwide, with new species being discovered regularly. Each group of aculeates has unique adaptations and behaviors that allow them to thrive in various habitats. Some species are solitary, while others form complex social structures like honey bee colonies or ant nests.

Threats and Conservation

Aculeates face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and diseases. Declines in bee populations, in particular, have raised concerns about food security and biodiversity loss. Conservation efforts are underway to protect aculeates and their habitats, including the preservation of pollinator-friendly landscapes and the reduction of pesticide use.

In conclusion, aculeates are a fascinating group of insects with diverse ecological roles and adaptations. Understanding and conserving these insects are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and biodiversity.


Aculeates Examples

  1. The aculeates of the bees are used for defense against predators.
  2. Entomologists study the diverse aculeates found in the insect world.
  3. Some species of wasps have particularly painful aculeates.
  4. The aculeates of scorpions are used for injecting venom into prey.
  5. Aculeates are modified ovipositors that have evolved into stingers in some insects.
  6. Bees use their aculeates to protect their hives from intruders.
  7. The aculeates of ants are used to subdue prey and defend their colonies.
  8. Some species of caterpillars have spiky aculeates to deter predators.
  9. Insects like bees and wasps have barbed aculeates for injecting venom.
  10. Aculeates are one of the distinguishing features of the Hymenoptera order of insects.


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  • Updated 25/06/2024 - 17:19:08